The Contradiction in Nigerian Language Policy: A Critical Analysis and Strategic Framework for Promoting Minor Languages

Abstract

Nigeria’s multilingual character presents both opportunities and challenges for educational policy. This paper critically examines Nigeria’s National Policy on Education (NPE) and the New National Language Policy (2022) in relation to mother tongue instruction, the elevation of French as the second official language, and the marginalisation of minority languages. Despite progressive aims, implementation has been constrained by inadequate planning, teacher shortages, and ideological contradictions rooted in colonial legacies. The paper argues that while French serves strategic regional integration goals, its institutional privileging underscores imbalances in resource allocation and policy attention. Recommendations include orthography development, teacher training, curriculum adaptation, community engagement, policy reforms, and equitable resource allocation to support Nigeria’s rich linguistic diversity and enhance educational outcomes.